Fabian Schmitz
My Research
Dissertation: Essays in Applied Microeconomic Theory
"My research revolves around the question of how policymakers can protect employees and consumers from being exploited by firms. Behavioral biases can lead consumers to misunderstand the total price of a certain good which implies that they might make wrong purchasing decisions. Anticipating the bias, the firms can use partitioned pricing, that is, to split the price into a transparent headline price and an intransparent additional price to confuse consumers. Policymakers have become aware of these problems and have implemented various policies such as banning partitioned pricing. My thesis analyzes what constitutes a “good” regulation and what are the adverse consequences of the current regulations that are being implemented."
My Future
"I recently embarked on a new journey in economic consulting. My time at the BGSE has taught me numerous skills that will be helpful for a career in consulting and I'm really looking forward to this exciting new chapter of my life."
My Highlights
"The collaborative research environment at the BGSE allowed me to deepen my knowledge and get to know many other researchers. I had the freedom to work on the topics that I am most passionate about which made it a lot of fun at the same time. Bonn is also a great place to live because it offers a high quality of life with its rich history, cultural scene, and picturesque surroundings along the Rhine."
Matthias Gnewuch
My Research
Dissertation: Essays in Macroeconomics
"My research focuses on monetary policy and how its effects differ across firms and countries. For example, I have studied the European Central Bank's asset purchases and found that large firms in core euro-area countries, such as Germany, France, and the Netherlands, have benefitted the most from this unconventional monetary policy measure."
My Future
"I have recently started to work as an economist for the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) - the “lender of last resort” for euro-area countries. I am excited to work towards the ESM's mission of safeguarding financial stability and fostering prosperity in the euro area as well as to continue my research."
My Highlights
"I highly appreciated not only the BGSE's inspiring research environment, but also its flexibility and comprehensive support that allowed me to visit both the European Central Bank and the University of Notre Dame (U.S.) during my Ph.D. studies. Moreover, I liked the strong sense of community in Bonn's economics department and greatly enjoyed the many get-togethers, summer parties, soccer games, and other social events."
